Chennai, Mar 24 : The Indian cricket team took some time out of their gruelling practice sessions here to interact with specially-abled children last evening.

Indian skipper Anil Kumble lauded efforts to bring a smile and some hope in the lives of these specially-abled children.

"Whenever we have come to Chennai, I think it's been really encouraging for all my colleagues to come forward and meet the children," said Kumble.

The function was organised by the voluntary organisation, 'Shakthi'.

Meanwhile, Proteas' skipper Graeme Smith has said that he is looking forward to the Test series with India.

"To come to India and to lead South Africa on sporting fields, its an honour that is bestowed on all of us. We are very proud," said Smith.

India takes on South Africa in the first of the three-tests series here on Wednesday.

South Africa is hoping to carry forward the momentum gained from successes in Pakistan last year and Bangladesh recently.

India put up a solid display on their Australia tour, losing an acrimonious test series 2-1 before winning the one-day tri-series, where they beat world champions Australia 2-0 in the finals. Ahmedabad and Kanpur will stage the final two tests.

ANI